Cajun Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri

Looking for a bold and flavorful plant-based dish? These Cajun Cauliflower Steaks are tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and perfectly spiced. Topped with a fresh and zesty chimichurri sauce, this dish is a satisfying, restaurant-worthy meal made right in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a main or a hearty side, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

🥦 Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Steaks

• 1 large cauliflower head, cut into 1-inch thick steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Chimichurri Sauce

• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• Juice of ½ lemon

🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Cauliflower Steaks

• Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower and cut it into 1-inch thick steaks.

2️⃣ Season & Marinate

• In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cajun seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Brush the mixture onto both sides of each cauliflower steak.

3️⃣ Cook the Steaks

• Oven Method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the steaks on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Pan-Seared Method: Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add a little olive oil, and sear each side for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.

4️⃣ Make the Chimichurri Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and lemon juice. Stir well.

5️⃣ Assemble & Serve

• Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the cauliflower steaks before serving. Enjoy this flavorful, plant-based masterpiece!

📌 Recipe Notes & Tips

✅ Extra Crisp? Broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
✅ More Heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
✅ Pairing Ideas? Serve with quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad.